[Expression of neutrophil extracellular traps and phagocytic functions among patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and phagocytic function in the peripheral blood of patients with hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE), and to examine their correlations with clinical inflamma tory indicators and liver functions.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients with HAE admitted to Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University from August 2022 to June 2023 were enrolled, while 50 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals from the Centre for Healthy Examinations of the hospital during the same period served as controls. The levels of NETs markers neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) and neutrophil elastase (NE) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Peripheral blood neutrophils were isolated using density gradient centrifugation, stimulated in vitro using phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA), and the levels of MPO and citrullination histone H3 (CitH3) released by neutrophils were quantified using flow cytometry. The phagocytic functions of neutrophils were examined using flow cytometry. In addition, the correlations of MPO and NE levels with clinical inflammatory indicators and liver biochemical indicators were examined using Spearman correlation analysis among HAE patients.

RESULTS

The peripheral blood plasma MPO［(417.15 ± 76.08) ng/mL vs. (255.70 ± 80.84) ng/mL; t = 10.28, P < 0.05］, NE［(23.16 ± 6.75) ng/mL vs. (11.92 ± 3.17) ng/mL; t = 10.65, P < 0.05］and CitH3 levels［(33.93 ± 18.93) ng/mL vs. (19.52 ± 13.89) ng/mL; t = 4.34, P < 0.05］were all significantly higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls, and a lower phagocytosis rate of neutrophils was detected among HAE patients than among healthy controls［(70.85 ± 7.32)% vs. (94.04 ± 3.90)%; t = 20.18, P < 0.05］, and the ability to produce NETs by neutrophils was higher among HAE patients than among healthy controls following in vitro PMA stimulation. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the phagocytosis rate of neutrophils correlated negatively with platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), interleukin-6 (IL-6) level and C-reactive protein (CRP) level (rs = -0.515 to -0.392, all P values < 0.05), and the MPO and NE levels positively correlated with inflammatory markers NLR, PLR, CRP and IL-6 (rs = 0.333 to 0.445, all P values < 0.05) and clinical liver biochemical indicators aspartic transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, direct bilirubin and total bilirubin among HAE patients (rs = 0.290 to 0.628, all P values < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive formation of NETs is found among HAE patients, which affects the phagocytic ability of neutrophils and results in elevated levels of inflammatory indicators. NETs markers may be promising novel biomarkers for early diagnosis, monitoring, and severity assessment of liver disease.

Sulfonated Polyimide Membranes Constructed by Main-Chain and Molecular-Network Engineering Strategy for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell

Excessive swelling is one important factor that leads to high fuel permeability and limited operating concentration of methanol for proton exchange membranes. Herein, a collaborative strategy of main-chain and molecular-network engineering is applied to lower swelling ratio and improve methanol resistance for highly sulfonated polyimide. Two m-phenylenediamine monomers (4-(2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-vinylphenoxy)benzene-1,3-diamine and 4,6-bis(2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-4-vinylphenoxy)benzene-1,3-diamine) with tetrafluorostyrol groups are designed and synthesized. Two series of cross-linked sulfonated polyimides (CSPI-Ts, CSPI-Bs) are prepared from the two diamines, 4,4'-diaminostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid and 1,4,5,8-naphthalenetetracarboxylicdianhydride. The rigid main-chain structure is cornerstone for wet CSPI-Ts and CSPI-Bs remaining stable at elevated temperatures. The introduction of hydrophobic cross-linked network further improves their dimensional stability and methanol resistance. CSPI-Ts and CSPI-Bs show obviously improved performances containing high proton conductivity (121 ± 0.27-158 ± 0.35 S cm-1 ), low swelling ratio (9.6 ± 0.40%-16.1 ± 0.01%) and methanol permeability (4.14-7.69 × 10-7 cm2 s-1 ) at 80 °C. The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is assembled from CSPI-T-10 with balanced properties, and it exhibits high maximum power density (PDmax ) of 82.3 and 72.6 mW cm-2 in 2 and 10 m methanol solution, respectively. The ratio of PDmax in 10 m methanol solution to the value in 2 m methanol solution is as high as 88%. The CSPI-T-10 is promising proton exchange membrane candidate for DMFC application.

Competitive fitness and homologous recombination of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants continue to emerge and cocirculate in humans and wild animals. The factors driving the emergence and replacement of novel variants and recombinants remain incompletely understood. Herein, we comprehensively characterized the competitive fitness of SARS-CoV-2 wild type (WT) and three variants of concern (VOCs), Alpha, Beta and Delta, by coinfection and serial passaging assays in different susceptible cells. Deep sequencing analyses revealed cell-specific competitive fitness: the Beta variant showed enhanced replication fitness during serial passage in Caco-2 cells, whereas the WT and Alpha variant showed elevated fitness in Vero E6 cells. Interestingly, a high level of neutralizing antibody sped up competition and completely reshaped the fitness advantages of different variants. More importantly, single clone purification identified a significant proportion of homologous recombinants that emerged during the passage history, and immune pressure reduced the frequency of recombination. Interestingly, a recombination hot region located between nucleotide sites 22,995 and 28,866 of the viral genomes could be identified in most of the detected recombinants. Our study not only profiled the variable competitive fitness of SARS-CoV-2 under different conditions, but also provided direct experimental evidence of homologous recombination between SARS-CoV-2 viruses, as well as a model for investigating SARS-CoV-2 recombination.

Future self-continuity and depression among college students: The role of presence of meaning and perceived social support

INTRODUCTION

Future self-continuity has been shown to have a protective effect against depression. This study aims to investigate the longitudinal relationship between future self-continuity and depression among college students, and to explore the mediating role of the presence of meaning and the moderating role of perceived social support.

METHODS

We conducted two studies in China in 2022 and 2023. Study 1 was a longitudinal cross-lagged study that examined the relationship between future self-continuity and depression among 173 participants (49.13% females, Mage  = 19.39, SD = 1.63). Study 2 was a cross-sectional study that explored the mediating role of the presence of meaning and the moderating role of perceived social support among 426 participants (48.59% females, Mage  = 19.30, SD = 1.60).

RESULTS

Study 1 showed that future self-continuity (T1) could significantly predict depression (T2), but depression (T1) could not predict future self-continuity (T2). Study 2 showed that after controlling for gender, the presence of meaning mediated the relationship between future self-continuity and depression, whereas perceived social support moderated the first half of the mediated model's pathway and the direct pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that enhancing the future self-continuity of college students and increasing the level of presence of meaning are effective measures for alleviating depression. Meanwhile, educators and families are called upon to provide more social support to college students.

Plant exosomes fused with engineered mesenchymal stem cell-derived nanovesicles for synergistic therapy of autoimmune skin disorders

Existing therapeutics for autoimmune diseases remain problematic due to low efficacy, severe side effects, and difficulties to reach target tissues. Herein, we design multifunctional fusion nanovesicles that can target lesions for the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases. The grapefruit-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (GEVs) with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are first encapsulated with CX5461, an immunosuppressant with anti-proliferative properties to form GEV@CX5461. In order to enhance therapeutic efficiency and safety, GEV@CX5461 are then fused with CCR6+ nanovesicles derived from membranes of engineered gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs). The resulting FV@CX5461 not only maintain the bioactivity of GEVs, CX5461, and GMSC membranes but also home to inflamed tissues rich in chemokine CCL20 through the chemotaxis function of CCR6 on FVs. Moreover, FV@CX5461 reduce the secretion of inflammatory factors, calm down Th17 cell activation, and induce Treg cell infiltration. Finally, impressive therapeutic efficiency in both psoriasis and atopic dermatitis disease models is demonstrated using FV@CX5461 to reshape the unbalanced immune microenvironment. A nanotherapeutic drug delivery strategy is developed using fusion nanovesicles derived from plant and animal cells with high clinical potential.

[Traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis: a review]

Echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by infection with Echinococcus species. As the drug of first choice for treatment of echinococcosis, albendazole suffers from problems of large doses and remarkable adverse reactions in clinical therapy. Development of novel drugs against echinococcosis is of urgent need. Recently, great advances have been achieved in the research on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis. This review summarizes the progress of researches on traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of echinococcosis, aiming to provide insights into development of anti-echinococcosis drugs.

Genomic diversity of Yersinia pestis from Yunnan Province, China, implies a potential common ancestor as the source of two plague epidemics

Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, is a zoonotic disease that can reemerge and cause outbreaks following decades of latency in natural plague foci. However, the genetic diversity and spread pattern of Y. pestis during these epidemic-silent cycles remain unclear. In this study, we analyze 356 Y. pestis genomes isolated between 1952 and 2016 in the Yunnan Rattus tanezumi plague focus, China, covering two epidemic-silent cycles. Through high-resolution genomic epidemiological analysis, we find that 96% of Y. pestis genomes belong to phylogroup 1.ORI2 and are subdivided into two sister clades (Sublineage1 and Sublineage2) characterized by different temporal-spatial distributions and genetic diversity. Most of the Sublineage1 strains are isolated from the first epidemic-silent cycle, while Sublineage2 strains are predominantly from the second cycle and revealing a west to east spread. The two sister clades evolved in parallel from a common ancestor and independently lead to two separate epidemics, confirming that the pathogen responsible for the second epidemic following the silent interval is not a descendant of the causative strain of the first epidemic. Our results provide a mechanism for defining epidemic-silent cycles in natural plague foci, which is valuable in the prevention and control of future plague outbreaks.

Genomic epidemiological analysis of county-scale Yersinia pestis spread pattern over 50 years in a Southwest Chinese prefecture

Plague, one of the most devastating infectious diseases in human history, is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Since the 1950s, the Dehong Dai-Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture (DH) in Yunnan Province, China, has recorded plague outbreaks that have resulted in 1,153 human cases and 379 deaths. The genetic diversity and transmission characteristics of Y. pestis strains in this region remain unknown. Here, we performed high-resolution genomic epidemiological analysis of 175 Y. pestis strains isolated from five counties and 19 towns in DH between 1953 and 2007. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that most DH strains were located in lineage 1.ORI2, which could be further subdivided into seven sub-phylogroups (SPG1-SPG7). The dominant sub-phylogroups of Y. pestis in DH varied during different periods and presented a population shift. Genomic evidence showed that plague might have emerged from the southwest of DH (e.g., Longchuan or Ruili counties) or its bordering countries, and subsequently spread to the northeast in multiple waves between 1982 and 2007. Our study infers a fine-scale phylogeny and spread pattern of the DH Y. pestis population, which extends our knowledge regarding its genetic diversity and provides clues for the future prevention and control of plague in this region.

Continuous evolution and emerging lineage of seasonal human coronaviruses: A multicenter surveillance study

The seasonal human coronaviruses (HCoVs) have zoonotic origins, repeated infections, and global transmission. The objectives of this study are to elaborate the epidemiological and evolutionary characteristics of HCoVs from patients with acute respiratory illness. We conducted a multicenter surveillance at 36 sentinel hospitals of Beijing Metropolis, China, during 2016-2019. Patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) were included, and submitted respiratory samples for screening HCoVs by multiplex real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assays. All the positive samples were used for metatranscriptomic sequencing to get whole genomes of HCoVs for genetical and evolutionary analyses. Totally, 321 of 15 677 patients with ILI or SARI were found to be positive for HCoVs, with an infection rate of 2.0% (95% confidence interval, 1.8%-2.3%). HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, and HCoV-HKU1 infections accounted for 18.7%, 38.3%, 40.5%, and 2.5%, respectively. In comparison to ILI cases, SARI cases were significantly older, more likely caused by HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43, and more often co-infected with other respiratory pathogens. A total of 179 full genome sequences of HCoVs were obtained from 321 positive patients. The phylogenetical analyses revealed that HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63 and HCoV-OC43 continuously yielded novel lineages, respectively. The nonsynonymous to synonymous ratio of all key genes in each HCoV was less than one, indicating that all four HCoVs were under negative selection pressure. Multiple substitution modes were observed in spike glycoprotein among the four HCoVs. Our findings highlight the importance of enhancing surveillance on HCoVs, and imply that more variants might occur in the future.

[Analysis of enterovirus infection type among acute respiratory tract infection cases in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021]

Objective: To understand the infection status of Enterovirus (EV) in cases of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, and analyze the prevalence and type composition of EV in ARIs. Methods: From October 2017 to May 2021, pharyngeal swab samples were collected from 1 828 patients with ARIs in Luohe Central Hospital and the clinical epidemiological data of these cases were also collected. EV-positive samples were identified by Quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The 5'-untranslated region (5'UTR) was amplified by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The results of 5'UTR region were initially typed by Enterovirus Genotyping Tool Version 1.0. Based on the typing results, the full-length of VP1 region was amplified by RT-PCR. The EV typing was identified again by VP1 region. Results: Among 1 828 cases of ARIs, 56.7% (1 036) were males. The median (Q₁, Q₃) age was about 3 (1, 5) years. Patients under 5 years old accounted for 71.6% (1 309 cases). Among all cases, a total of 71 EV-positive samples were identified by qPCR, with a detection rate of 3.88% (71/1 828). The EV detection rates for men and women were 3.28% (34/1 036) and 4.67% (37/792), without statistically significant differences (χ²=2.32, P=0.14). The EV detection rates for 2 to <6 years, 6 months to <2 years, 6 to <10 years, and <6 months were 6.29% (48/763), 3.00% (18/600), 2.52% (4/159), and 1.67% (1/60) (χ²=27.91, P<0.001). The EV detection rate was 0.92% (3/326) in autumn and winter of 2017. The EV detection rates were 1.18% (6/508), 2.47% (12/485) and 8.31% (34/409) in each year from 2018 to 2020, with an increasing trend year by year(χ²_trend=29.76, P<0.001). The main prevalent seasons were summer and autumn. The detection rate in spring of 2021 was 4.00% (4/100). A total of 12 types were identified and classified as CVA2, CVA4, CVA5, CVA6, CVA10, CVB3, CVB5, E5, E11, E30, PV-1, and EV-D68. The types of CVA2, CVA10, CVA6, and CVB3 were the dominant phenotypes. In 59 sample of EV typing, the main clinical manifestation was upper respiratory tract infection (36/59, 61.01%). The dominant types detected in upper respiratory tract infections were CVA10 (10/36, 27.78%), CVA6 (9/36, 25.00%) and CVB3 (8/36, 22.22%). The dominant type detected in lower respiratory tract infections was CVA2 (7/19, 36.84%). Conclusion: In Luohe City, Henan Province from 2017 to 2021, EV infection in ARIs cases has clear seasonal and age-specific patterns, and the dominant types of upper and lower respiratory tract infections are different.

Effects of economic regional differences and family on adolescents' aggressive behaviors: Perspective of ecosystem integration

INTRODUCTION

Based on the ecological systems theory and cumulative risk model, the current study aimed to determine the mediating effects of parenting styles, peer relationship, and psychological capital on family socioeconomic status and adolescents' aggressive behaviors, as well as the moderating effects of economic regional differences.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional design, 1271 Chinese adolescents were recruited to complete the MacArthur Scale, the short-form Egna Minnen av Barndoms Uppfostran, the Positive PsyCap Questionnaire, the peer support subscale in the Student Personal Perception of Classroom Climate, and the Aggression Questionnaire.

RESULTS

After controlling for gender and age, parenting style, peer relationship, and psychological capital not only mediated, but also constituted multiple chains mediation between family socioeconomic status and aggressive behaviors. Moreover, economic regional differences moderated the multiple chains mediation model between family socioeconomic status and aggressive behaviors.

CONCLUSION

The accumulation of multiple adverse factors increases the probability of inducing aggressive behaviors, and the development of psychological capital helps reduce the occurrence of aggressive behaviors in adolescents.

Effect of genomic variations in severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus on the disease lethality

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), an emerging tick-borne bunyavirus, causes mild-to-moderate infection to critical illness or even death in human patients. The effect of virus variations on virulence and related clinical significance is unclear. We prospectively recruited SFTSV-infected patients in a hotspot region of SFTS endemic in China from 2011 to 2020, sequenced whole genome of SFTSV, and assessed the association of virus genomic variants with clinical data, viremia, and inflammatory response. We identified seven viral clades (I-VII) based on phylogenetic characterization of 805 SFTSV genome sequences. A significantly increased case fatality rate (32.9%) was revealed in one unique clade (IV) that possesses a specific co-mutation pattern, compared to other three common clades (I, 16.7%; II, 13.8%; and III, 11.8%). The phenotype-genotype association (hazard ratios ranged 1.327-2.916) was confirmed by multivariate regression adjusting age, sex, and hospitalization delay. We revealed a pronounced inflammation response featured by more production of CXCL9, IL-10, IL-6, IP-10, M-CSF, and IL-1β, in clade IV, which was also related to severe complications. We observed enhanced cytokine expression from clade IV inoculated PBMCs and infected mice. Moreover, the neutralization activity of convalescent serum from patients infected with one specified clade was remarkably reduced to other viral clades. Together, our findings revealed a significant association between one specific viral clade and SFTS fatality, highlighting the need for molecular surveillance for highly lethal strains in endemic regions and unravelled the importance of evaluating cross-clade effect in development of vaccines and therapeutics.

Human infection with a reassortment avian influenza A H3N8 virus: an epidemiological investigation study

A four-year-old boy developed recurrent fever and severe pneumonia in April, 2022. High-throughput sequencing revealed a reassortant avian influenza A-H3N8 virus (A/Henan/ZMD-22-2/2022(H3N8) with avian-origin HA and NA genes. The six internal genes were acquired from Eurasian lineage H9N2 viruses. Molecular substitutions analysis revealed the haemagglutin retained avian-like receptor binding specificity but that PB2 genes possessed sequence changes (E627K) associated with increased virulence and transmissibility in mammalian animal models. The patient developed respiratory failure, liver, renal, coagulation dysfunction and sepsis. Endotracheal intubation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were administered. H3N8 RNA was detected from nasopharyngeal swab of a dog, anal swab of a cat, and environmental samples collected in the patient's house. The full-length HA sequences from the dog and cat were identical to the sequence from the patient. No influenza-like illness was developed and no H3N8 RNA was identified in family members. Serological testing revealed neutralizing antibody response against ZMD-22-2 virus in the patient and three family members. Our results suggest that a triple reassortant H3N8 caused severe human disease. There is some evidence of mammalian adaptation, possible via an intermediary mammalian species, but no evidence of person-to-person transmission. The potential threat from avian influenza viruses warrants continuous evaluation and mitigation.

[Role of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in helminth infections: a review]

Helminth infections may trigger host innate and adaptive immune responses. Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are an important factor involved in type 2 immune responses, and produce a large number of T helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokines following stimulation by interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which play a critical role in parasite clearance and tissue repair. Following helminth infections, autocrine factors, mast cells, enteric nervous system and Th2 cells have been recently found to be involved in regulation of ILC2. Unraveling the role of ILC2 in immune response against helminth infections is of great value for basic research and drug development. This review summarizes the research progress on ILC2 and its role in helminth infections.

[Predictive value of serum HBV RNA for therapeutic effect of entecavir in patients with chronic hepatitis B]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the value of HBV RNA for predicting the therapeutic effect of long-term entecavir (ETV) antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 59 CHB patients treated with ETV for 96 or 108 months. HBV RNA levels, HBV DNA levels, and serological marker (HBeAg) levels were measured at baseline and 3, 6, 9, 12, 36, 72, and 96 (or 108) months during the therapy.

RESULTS

Although HBV RNA level decreased after 12 and 36 months of ETV antiviral therapy, no significance changes occurred in HBV RNA negative conversion rate (P>0.05). After 72 months of treatment or longer, 33 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than 100 copies/mL, and among them 29 patients had HBV RNA levels lower than the detection limit, and HBV RNA negative conversion rate was statistically significant (P < 0.05). A lower HBV RNA level was associated with a higher HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05). Age and HBV RNA level were positively correlated with HBeAg negative conversion rate (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Prolonged ETV antiviral therapy results in better clearance of HBV RNA and a higher negative conversion rate in CHB patients. The length of antiviral therapy and age are positively correlated with the negative conversion rate of HBV RNA, and earlier administration of the antiviral treatment achieves better therapeutic effect. Serum HBV RNA level can be used as an indicator for predicting conversion to negative HBeAg in CHB patients receiving ETV therapy.

The sage genome provides insight into the evolutionary dynamics of diterpene biosynthesis gene cluster in plants

The widely cultivated medicinal and ornamental plant sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is an evergreen shrub of the Lamiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean. We assembled a high-quality sage genome of 480 Mb on seven chromosomes, and identified a biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) encoding two pairs of diterpene synthases (diTPSs) that, together with the cytochromes P450 (CYPs) genes located inside and outside the cluster, form two expression cascades responsible for the shoot and root diterpenoids, respectively, thus extending BGC functionality from co-regulation to orchestrating metabolite production in different organs. Phylogenomic analysis indicates that the Salvia clades diverged in the early Miocene. In East Asia, most Salvia species are herbaceous and accumulate diterpenoids in storage roots. Notably, in Chinese sage S. miltiorrhiza, the diterpene BGC has contracted and the shoot cascade has been lost. Our data provide genomic insights of micro-evolution of growth type-associated patterning of specialized metabolite production in plants.

Aconitine: A review of its pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, toxicology and detoxification

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aconitine, a C₁₉-norditerpenoid alkaloid, derives from many medicinal plants such as Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. (Chinese:), Aconitum kusnezoffii Reichb (Chinese:), which were used to rheumatic fever, painful joints and some endocrinal disorders.

AIMS OF THE REVIEW

The present paper reviews research progress relating to the pharmacokinetics, physiological and pathological processes of aconitine, while some promising research direction and the detoxification of aconitine are also discussed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The accessible literature on aconitine, from 1990 to 2020, obtained from published materials of electronic databases, such as SCI finder, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, Springer and Google Scholar was systematically analyzed.

RESULTS

In this review, we address the pharmacokinetics of aconitine, as well as its pharmacological effects including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-virus, immunoregulation, analgesic, insecticide and inhibition of androgen synthesis. Further, we summarize the toxicity of aconitine such as cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity, on which we strikingly focus on the ways to reduce the toxicity of aconitine based.

CONCLUSIONS

Aconitine plays an vital role in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes and we can reduce the toxicity of aconitine by compatibility and hydrolysis. Although some issues still exist, such as the correlative relationship between the dose and toxicity of aconitine not being clear, our review may provide new ideas for the application of aconitine in the treatment of related diseases.

[Progress in the study of antiviral activity of cepharanthine against SARS-CoV-2]

As a member of the dibenzyl isoquinoline alkaloid family, cepharathine is an alkaloid from the traditional Chinese medicine cepharathine, which is mainly used for treatment of leukopenia and other diseases. Recent studies of the inhibitory effect of cepharathine against SARS-CoV-2 have attracted widespread attention and aroused heated discussion. As the original discoverer of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharanthine, here we briefly summarize the discovery of cepharanthine and review important progress in relevant studies concerning the discovery and validation of anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharathine, its antiviral mechanisms and clinical trials of its applications in COVID-19 therapy.

AS-tDR-007872: A Novel tRNA-Derived Small RNA Acts an Important Role in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

tRNA-derived small RNAs (also known as tsRNAs) are novel kinds of non-coding RNAs. Although tsRNAs are aberrantly expressed in different tumor types, there is scanty of research investigating their expression profiling and functions in pulmonary adenocarcinoma (PADC). We identified the expression of AS-tDR-007872 in 30 non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients' carcinoma tissues and conducted biological function evaluation. We also test the expression levels of AS-tDR-007872 in plasma samples obtained from 35 healthy people and 79 NSCLC cases. The results identified downregulated AS-tDR-007872 in both cancer tissues and plasma samples versus adjacent normal counterparts (p < 0.05) and healthy controls (p < 0.001). The area under the curve of AS-tDR-007872 was identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to be 0.756 (95% CI, 0.663-0.849; p < 0.001). Furthermore, overexpression of AS-tDR-007872 in vitro inhibited tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and promoted apoptosis. The knockdown of AS-tDR-007872 showed the opposite results. Meanwhile, we found significantly downregulated BCL2L11 after overexpressing AS-tDR-007872. From the above, our research suggests that AS-tDR-007872 can be a tumor suppressor and a promising biomarker for diagnosing lung cancer.

Rapid Multilateral and Integrated Public Health Response to a Cross-City Outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Combining Analytical, Molecular, and Genomic Epidemiological Analysis

On September 21, 2019, the Shenzhen and Dongguan Centers for Disease Control and Prevention received notification of a large cluster of suspected gastroenteritis involving primarily children who sought medical care at hospitals throughout two adjacent cities in China, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. A joint outbreak response was promptly initiated across jurisdictions in a concerted effort between clinical microbiologists, epidemiologists, and public health scientists. Concurrently, multiplex PCRs were used for rapid laboratory diagnosis of suspected cases; epidemiological investigations were conducted to identify the outbreak source, complemented by near real-time multicenter whole-genome analyses completed within 34 h. Epidemiological evidence indicated that all patients had consumed egg sandwiches served on September 20 as snacks to children and staff at a nursery in Dongguan, located near Shenzhen. Salmonella Enteritidis was isolated from case-patients, food handlers, kitchenware, and sandwiches with kitchen-made mayonnaise. Whole-genome single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a well-supported cluster with pairwise distances of ≤1 SNP between genomes for outbreak-associated isolates, providing the definitive link between all samples. In comparison with historical isolates from the same geographical region, the minimum pairwise distance was >14 SNPs, suggesting a non-local outbreak source. Genomic source tracing revealed the possible transmission dynamics of a S. Enteritidis clone throughout a multi-provincial egg distribution network. The efficiency and scale with which multidisciplinary and integrated approaches were coordinated in this foodborne disease outbreak response was unprecedented in China, leading to the timely intervention of a large cross-jurisdiction Salmonella outbreak.

A compact x-ray diffraction system for dynamic compression experiments on pulsed-power generators

Pulsed-power generators can produce well-controlled continuous ramp compression of condensed matter for high-pressure equation-of-state studies using the magnetic loading technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data from dynamically compressed samples provide direct measurements of the elastic compression of the crystal lattice, onset of plastic flow, strength-strain rate dependence, structural phase transitions, and density of crystal defects, such as dislocations. Here, we present a cost-effective, compact, pulsed x-ray source for XRD measurements on pulsed-power-driven ramp-loaded samples. This combination of magnetically driven ramp compression of materials with a single, short-pulse XRD diagnostic will be a powerful capability for the dynamic materials' community to investigate in situ dynamic phase transitions critical to equation of states. We present results using this new diagnostic to evaluate lattice compression in Zr and Al and to capture signatures of phase transitions in CdS.

Natural infection of pangolins with human respiratory syncytial viruses

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an enveloped non-segmented negative sense RNA virus that belongs to Orthopneumovirus genus of the Pneumoviridae family in the order Mononegavirales. The virus is the leading cause of severe respiratory disease in children under two years of age and is responsible for substantial disease burden in infants and elder people in both developed and developing countries^1,2. RSV is only known to circulate among humans, though it was first isolated from chimpanzees³. The virus can experimentally infect mice, rats, cotton rats, ferrets, and hamsters, but does not naturally circulate in these animal populations⁴. We found that Malayan pangolins (Manis javanica) were naturally infected with RSVs that have 99.4-99.8% genomic identity with strains circulating in humans. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that five RSVs in pangolins were RSV-A ON1 and seven were RSV-B BA genotypes, both of which are currently prevalent in humans worldwide. These findings suggest that humans might transmit their viruses to endangered wildlife.

Variation of the Vaginal Microbiome During and After Pregnancy in Chinese Women

A comprehensive profiling of the vaginal microbial communities and their variability enables an accurate description of the microbiome in women. However, there is a lack of studies available on Chinese women. In the present study, the composition of the vaginal microbiota during pregnancy and the 6-week postpartum period of 454 Chinese women was characterized by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. The vaginal microbiome showed variations during pregnancy and the postpartum period based on the abortion history, hypertensive disorders, delivery mode, and maternal age. Co-variation of 22 bacterial taxa, including the Lactobacillus genus and two of its species, may account for the common characteristics of the vaginal microbiome under scenarios of different medical histories and pregnancy outcomes. In contrast, discriminant bacterial species were significantly different between women who had preterm birth (PTB) with and without premature rupture of membranes (PROM), and the community state type (CST) IV-A without any predominant Lactobacillus species in the microbiota was more prevalent during pregnancy in the PROM-PTB cases, suggesting that specific bacterial species could be considered to distinguish between different types of PTB. By providing data on Chinese women, this study will enrich the knowledge of the human microbiome and contribute to a better understanding of the association between the vaginal microbiome and reproductive health.

[Analysis on incidence trend of liver cancer in China, 2005-2016]

Objective: To understand the incidence trend of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016, and explore the correlation between the incidence trend of liver cancer and the incidence trend of hepatitis B. Methods: The incidence data of liver cancer in China from 2005 to 2016 were collected from the Annual Report of Cancer Registry in China. The incidence data of hepatitis B were collected from China Public Health Science Data Center. World standardized incidence rate (WSR) was calculated according to the World Segi's population. Joinpoint regression model was used to analyze the trend of WSR of liver cancer [measured by average annual percentage change (AAPC)]. The age-period-cohort model was fitted to analyze the age, period and cohort effects in people aged 20- years and above. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to explore the correlation between the incidence of liver cancer and the incidence of hepatitis B. Results: The crude incidence of liver cancer in China showed a trend of first increase before 2009 and then relatively stable. The world standardized morbidity rate of liver cancer in China decreased from 19.11 per 100 000 in 2005 to 17.74 per 100 000 in 2016 (AAPC=-0.5%, 95%CI: -1.3%-0.3%, P=0.240). The incidence of liver cancer in male decreased significantly (AAPC=-1.0%, 95%CI: -1.5%--0.5%, P=0.001). The incidence of liver cancer in women increased from 2005 to 2010 [annual percentage change (APC)=1.7%, 95%CI: -0.1%-3.4%, P=0.059] but showed a significant decrease trend from 2010 to 2016 (APC=-1.6%, 95%CI: -2.3%--1.0%, P=0.001). From 2005 to 2016, the incidence of liver cancer showed a decreasing trend in urban areas (AAPC=-0.3%, 95%CI: -0.8%-0.3%, P=0.316) and rural areas (AAPC=-3.9%, 95%CI: -4.4%--3.3%, P<0.001). Risk for liver cancer increased with age, while the period effect showed a trend of first increase then decrease and cohort effect showed a decrease trend. The morbidity rates of both hepatitis B and liver cancer showed decrease trends from 2009 to 2016, and there was a significant correlation (r=0.71, 95%CI: 0.01-0.94, P=0.048). Conclusions: From 2005 to 2016, the morbidity rate of liver cancer in China showed a decrease trend, and there were significant gender and urban-rural area specific differences. Age effect had a great impact on the risk for liver cancer. With the progress of population aging in China, liver cancer is still a public health problem, to which close attention needs to be paid.

A 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase converts dihydrofuran to furan in Salvia diterpenoids

Tanshinone ⅡA (TⅡA), a diterpene quinone with a furan ring, is a bioactive compound found in the medicinal herb redroot sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge), in which both furan and dihydrofuran analogs are present in abundance. Progress has been made recently in elucidating the tanshinone biosynthetic pathway, including heterocyclization of the dihydrofuran D-ring by cytochrome P450s; however, dehydrogenation of dihydrofuran to furan, a key step of furan ring formation, remains uncharacterized. Here, by differential transcriptome mining, we identified six 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase (2-ODD) genes whose expressions corresponded to tanshinone biosynthesis. We showed that Sm2-ODD14 acts as a dehydrogenase catalyzing the furan ring aromatization. In vitro Sm2-ODD14 converted cryptotanshinone to TⅡA and thus was designated TⅡA synthase (SmTⅡAS). Furthermore, SmTⅡAS showed a strict substrate specificity, and repression of SmTⅡAS expression in hairy root by RNAi led to increased accumulation of total dihydrofuran-tanshinones and decreased production of furan-tanshinones. We conclude that SmTⅡAS controls the metabolite flux from dihydrofuran- to furan-tanshinones, which influences medicinal properties of S. miltiorrhiza.

Prevalence and risk factors of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease during 2014-2018 from three cities of Liaoning Province: an epidemiological survey

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and characteristics of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in individuals undergoing physical examination in Liaoning Province (China).

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Single centre.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults who underwent routine health examination at Xikang Medical Center in Liaoning Province (Shenyang, Dandong and Dalian cities) between January 2014 and December 2018.

RESULTS

Among the 204 394 included subjects, 71 756 were diagnosed with MAFLD, accounting for 35.28%. The total prevalence of MAFLD in Shenyang, Dandong and Dalian cities over the past 5 years was 35.8%, 40.41% and 31.7%, respectively. Men had a prevalence of 46.12%, which was higher than in women (21.80%). The percentage of MAFLD in body mass index (BMI) <23 kg/m² and ≥23 kg/m² was 6.49% and 53.23%, respectively. In all subjects, BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine (SCr), serum uric acid (SUA), haematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and urine protein were independently associated with MAFLD (all p<0.001). In lean subjects, DBP, FBG, TG, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, AST, ALP, GGT, SCr, SUA, HCT and MCV were independently associated with MAFLD (all p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of MAFLD in Liaoning Province was found to be associated with sex, cities with different economic statuses, BMI and multiple metabolic indicators.

[Effects of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat]

Objective: To investigate the effect of N-trimethyl chitosan-recombinant tissue factor pathway inhibitor (rTFPI) complex on avulsion flap with roll compaction in rat. Methods: The experimental methods were adopted. The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex solution was prepared by ion cross-linking method. The morphology of the complex was observed by scanning electron microscope, and its diameter was measured. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex was determined and calculated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method (n=3). The concentration of rTFPI in the solution at 0, 10, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 240 minutes of storage was measured by ELISA method to observe the release of rTFPI, and its half-life was calculated (n=3). Twenty-four 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into phosphate buffered saline (PBS) group, N-trimethyl chitosan alone group, rTFPI alone group, and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group according to the random number table, with 6 rats in each group. The avulsion flaps with roll compaction were prepared on the backs of rats with pedicles located on the line of the bilateral iliac spine and lifted from the surface of the muscle membrane. One injection of corresponding reagents was carried out immediately after in-situ suture and on post operation day (POD) 1, 2, and 3. General changes of the flap were observed on POD 1, 3, and 7. On POD 7, the survival area of the flap was measured and the survival rate of the flap was calculated; the flaps were divided into pedicle, proximal, middle, and distal segments, and the blood perfusion in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the flap was detected by the laser speckle blood flow imager; tissue samples in the middle of the flap were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin to observe the changes in tissue structure and the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the numbers of embolized blood vessels and new blood vessels per 100 times visual field were counted. Data were statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and least significant difference test. Results: The N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex had an irregular spherical structure with a diameter of 150-200 nm. The encapsulation rate of rTFPI in the complex and drug loading rate of the complex were (88.7±2.1)% and (2.83±0.09)%, respectively. The concentration of rTFPI in the solution of the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex gradually increased with prolonged storage time, and the release was basically stable at 90 min, with half-life of (651±36) min. On POD 1, the distal parts of flaps of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group darkened significantly. On POD 3, scabs and necrosis were relatively mild on the distal segment of the flaps of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group as compared with those of the other two groups. On POD 7, the necrosis boundaries of the flaps of rats in each group were clear. On POD 7, the flap survival rates of rats in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were (63±7)% and (73±5)%, respectively, which were significantly higher than (41±3)% in PBS group and (52±7)% in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Moreover, the flap survival rate of rats in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.05). On POD 7, the flaps of rats in each group had blood perfusion; the blood perfusion values in the proximal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group and the blood perfusion values in the proximal, middle, and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in PBS group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion values in the distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and the blood perfusion values in the middle and distal segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly higher than those in N-trimethyl chitosan alone group (P<0.05 or P<0.01); the blood perfusion value in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group was significantly higher than that in rTFPI alone group (P<0.01). On POD 7, inflammatory cells infiltrated more and cell edema was obvious in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in PBS group and N-trimethyl chitosan alone group. Compared with those of the previous two groups, the inflammation degrees in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in rTFPI alone group and N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group were significantly milder, the number of embolized blood vessels was significantly decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and the number of new blood vessels was significantly increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with that of rTFPI alone group, the number of new blood vessels in the middle segment tissue of the rat flaps in N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI group increased significantly (P<0.05). Conclusions: The effect of sustained release of rTFPI can be achieved by loading rTFPI with N-trimethyl chitosan. Compared with rTFPI alone, the N-trimethyl chitosan-rTFPI complex can further improve the blood perfusion of the avulsion flaps with roll compaction in rat and improve the survival rate of the flap.

Isolation, characterization and biocontrol efficacy of a T4-like phage virulent to multidrug-resistant Enterobacter hormaechei

Enterobacter hormaechei is an important emerging pathogen, often exhibiting resistance to multiple clinically important antibiotics. In this study, E. hormaechei was found, for the first time, to be lethal to fish. Bacteriophages are considered potential treatments for bacterial infections. The lytic phage vB_EhoM-IME523 (abbreviated 'IME523') infecting multidrug-resistant E. hormaechei was isolated from hospital sewage. IME523 exhibits T4-like morphology, including a prolate icosahedral head 110 ± 1.89 nm (mean ± SD) long and 82 ± 0.75 nm wide, and a contractile tail of ca. 110 ± 0.91 nm in length. The complete genome length of phage IME523 is 172763 bp, with a G + C content of 39.97%. The whole genome sequence of IME523 has a 93.10% average nucleotide identity (ANI) and a 53.3% in silico DNA-DNA hybridization (isDDH) value with the closest-related Enterobacter phage vB_EclM_CIP9 ('CIP9'). ANI and isDDH values between IME523 and other phages were lower than 78 and 22%, respectively. IME523 and CIP9 formed a monophyletic branch in a phylogenetic tree based on the terminase large subunit, DNA polymerase protein and whole genome phylogenetic analysis. Results suggest that IME523 is a novel species in the subfamily Tevenvirinae and forms a novel genus together with CIP9. No IME523 open reading frame was found to be associated with virulence factors or antibiotic resistance genes. IME523 showed promising protection to zebrafish and brocade carp against E. hormaechei challenge.

A unique flavoenzyme operates in ubiquinone biosynthesis in photosynthesis-related eukaryotes

Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is an electron transporter in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, yet the biosynthetic pathway in eukaryotes remains only partially resolved. C6-hydroxylation completes the benzoquinone ring full substitution, a hallmark of CoQ. Here, we show that plants use a unique flavin-dependent monooxygenase (CoqF), instead of di-iron enzyme (Coq7) operating in animals and fungi, as a C6-hydroxylase. CoqF evolved early in eukaryotes and became widely distributed in photosynthetic and related organisms ranging from plants, algae, apicomplexans, and euglenids. Independent alternative gene losses in different groups and lateral gene transfer have ramified CoqF across the eukaryotic tree with predominance in green lineages. The exclusive presence of CoqF in Streptophyta hints at an association of the flavoenzyme with photoautotrophy in terrestrial environments. CoqF provides a phylogenetic marker distinguishing eukaryotes and represents a previously unknown target for drug design against parasitic protists.

Phosphoproteomics of cold stress-responsive mechanisms in Rhododendron chrysanthum

BACKGROUND

As an alpine plant, Rhododendron chrysanthum (R. chrysanthum) has evolved cold resistance mechanisms and become a valuable plant resource with the responsive mechanism of cold stress.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We adopt the phosphoproteomic and proteomic analysis combining with physiological measurement to illustrate the responsive mechanism of R. chrysanthum seedling under cold (4 °C) stress. After chilling for 12 h, 350 significantly changed proteins and 274 significantly changed phosphoproteins were detected. Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) analysis showed that significantly changed phosphoproteins and proteins indicated cold changed energy production and conversion and signal transduction.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated photosynthesis was inhibited under cold stress, but cold induced calcium-mediated signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and other transcription regulation factors could protect plants from the destruction caused by cold stress. These data provide the insight to the cold stress response and defense mechanisms of R. chrysanthum leaves at the phosphoproteome level.

Victimization and depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents: A moderated mediation model

BACKGROUND

Victimization as an inducing factor of depressive symptoms has been confirmed in previous studies. However, little is known about how and when it induces depressive symptoms in adolescents.

METHODS

In total, 1174 Chinese adolescents were recruited to complete the Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire, Security Questionnaire, Positive Psychological Capital Questionnaire, and the Chinese version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.

RESULTS

After controlling for gender and school type, the sense of security partially mediated the association between victimization and depressive symptoms. Moreover, direct association and the mediating effect of the sense of security were moderated by psychological capital. The moderating effect occurred in the second half of the mediating effect.

LIMITATIONS

Causal conclusions cannot be drawn based on cross-sectional research design. All measures were based on participant self-report.

CONCLUSIONS

The mediating model constructed in this study emphasized the important influence of stress, emotion, and psychological diathesis on adolescent depressive symptoms.

Characterization and structural basis of a lethal mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2

There is an urgent need for animal models to study SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. Here, we generate and characterize a novel mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain, MASCp36, that causes severe respiratory symptoms, and mortality. Our model exhibits age- and gender-related mortality akin to severe COVID-19. Deep sequencing identified three amino acid substitutions, N501Y, Q493H, and K417N, at the receptor binding domain (RBD) of MASCp36, during in vivo passaging. All three RBD mutations significantly enhance binding affinity to its endogenous receptor, ACE2. Cryo-electron microscopy analysis of human ACE2 (hACE2), or mouse ACE2 (mACE2), in complex with the RBD of MASCp36, at 3.1 to 3.7 Å resolution, reveals the molecular basis for the receptor-binding switch. N501Y and Q493H enhance the binding affinity to hACE2, whereas triple mutations at N501Y/Q493H/K417N decrease affinity and reduce infectivity of MASCp36. Our study provides a platform for studying SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, and unveils the molecular mechanism for its rapid adaptation and evolution.

Characterization and structural basis of a lethal mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2

There is an urgent need for animal models to study SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. Here, we generate and characterize a novel mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain, MASCp36, that causes severe respiratory symptoms, and mortality. Our model exhibits age- and gender-related mortality akin to severe COVID-19. Deep sequencing identified three amino acid substitutions, N501Y, Q493H, and K417N, at the receptor binding domain (RBD) of MASCp36, during in vivo passaging. All three RBD mutations significantly enhance binding affinity to its endogenous receptor, ACE2. Cryo-electron microscopy analysis of human ACE2 (hACE2), or mouse ACE2 (mACE2), in complex with the RBD of MASCp36, at 3.1 to 3.7 Å resolution, reveals the molecular basis for the receptor-binding switch. N501Y and Q493H enhance the binding affinity to hACE2, whereas triple mutations at N501Y/Q493H/K417N decrease affinity and reduce infectivity of MASCp36. Our study provides a platform for studying SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, and unveils the molecular mechanism for its rapid adaptation and evolution.

In this study, Qin et al. present a murine-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain, MASCp36, as a model for studying the pathogenicity, evolution and adaptation of the virus to human and animal hosts.

Engineering high coenzyme Q10 tomato

Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is vital for energy metabolism in living organisms. In humans, CoQ₁₀ deficiency causes diseases and must be replenished via diet; however, CoQ content in plant foods is primarily low. Here, we report the breeding of high CoQ₁₀ tomato lines by expressing four enzymes with a fruit-specific promoter, which modifies the chloroplast chorismate pathway, enhances cytosolic isoprenoid biosynthesis, and up-regulates the first two reactions in mitochondrion that construct the CoQ₁₀ polyisoprenoid tail. We show that, while the level of the aromatic precursor could be markedly elevated, head group prenylation is the key to increasing the final CoQ₁₀ yield. In the HUCD lines expressing all four transgenes, the highest CoQ₁₀ content (0.15 mg/g dry weight) shows a seven-fold increase from the wild-type level and reaches an extraordinarily rich CoQ₁₀ food grade. Overviewing the changes in other terpenoids by transcriptome and metabolic analyses reveals variable contents of carotenoids and α-tocopherol in the HUCD lines. In addition to the enigmatic relations among different terpenoid pathways, high CoQ₁₀ plants maintaining substantial levels of either vitamin can be selected. Our investigation paves the way for the development of CoQ₁₀-enriched crops as dietary supplements.

[Urine proteomics signatures associated with alcohol drinking among residents attending the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu, Shandong province]

The liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect the urinary proteomics of 223 residents aged 40-69 years old who participated in the National Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Early Detection Program in Linqu County, Shandong Province from November 22 to December 7, 2018, and analyze the alcohol consumption related proteomic profiles and individual urinary protein. There were significant differences in urinary protein profiles between alcohol consumption group and non-alcohol consumption group. The expression of 26 urinary proteins was up-regulated and 20 urinary proteins were down-regulated in alcohol consumption group (P<0.05). The differentially expressed proteins had enzyme inhibitor activity and phospholipid binding function, and mainly enriched in pathways involving proximal tubule bicarbonate regeneration, complement and coagulation cascade, and cholesterol metabolism. The protein expressions of complement factor I (CFI), angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and protein C inhibitor (SERPINA5) were positively correlated with daily alcohol consumption.

Difference of Intrahost Dynamics of the Second Human Pegivirus and Hepatitis C Virus in HPgV-2/HCV-Coinfected Patients

Background

The second human pegivirus (HPgV-2) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) belong to the Flaviviridae family and share some common genome features. However, the two viruses exhibit significantly different genetic diversity. The comparison of intrahost dynamics of HPgV-2 and HCV that mainly reflect virus-host interactions is needed to elucidate their intrahost difference of genetic diversity and the possible mechanisms.

Methods

Intrahost single nucleotide variations (iSNVs) were identified by means of next-generation sequencing from both cross-sectional and longitudinal samples from HPgV-2- and HCV-coinfected patients. The levels of human cytokines were quantified in the patient before and after HCV elimination by the treatment of direct-acting antivirals (DAA).

Results

Unlike HCV, the viral sequences of HPgV-2 are highly conserved among HPgV-2-infected patients. However, iSNV analysis confirmed the intrahost variation or quasispecies of HPgV-2. Almost all iSNVs of HPgV-2 did not accumulate or transmit within host over time, which may explain the highly conserved HPgV-2 consensus sequence. Intrahost variation of HPgV-2 mainly causes nucleotide transition in particular at the 3rd codon position and synonymous substitutions, indicating purifying or negative selection posed by host immune system. Cytokine data further indicate that HPgV-2 infection alone may not efficiently stimulate innate immune responses since proinflammatory cytokine expression dramatically decreased with elimination of HCV.

Conclusion

This study provided new insights into the intrahost genomic variations and evolutionary dynamics of HPgV-2 as well as the impact of host immune selection and virus polymerase on virus evolution. The different genetic diversity of HPgV-2 and HCV makes HPgV-2 a potential new model to investigate RNA virus diversity and the mechanism of viral polymerase in modulating virus replication.

[Transepidermal water loss of scar skin in three types of scar patients and its correlation with scar severity]

Objective: To study the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars, and to explore the correlation between TEWL and scar severity. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From February 2017 to February 2019, 120 scar patients who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the General Hospital of Jilin Chemical Industry Group, including 78 males and 42 females, aged (35±14) years. According to the diagnosis on admission, there were 40 cases of superficial scar patients, 40 cases of hypertrophic scar patients, and 40 cases of atrophic scar patients. On admission, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was used to score the scar of each patient; the TEWL of scar skin and normal skin 1 cm from the edge of scar or the same site of the healthy side (hereinafter referred to as normal skin) of each patient was measured by water loss tester, and the difference value of TEWL between scar skin and normal skin (hereinafter referred to as the TEWL difference) was calculated. Data were statistically analyzed with chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, paired sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, and Dunnett-t test for comparison, and the correlation between the difference value of TEWL and scar VSS score was analyzed with univariate linear regression analysis. Results: On admission, the scar VSS score of superficial scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar or atrophic scar patients (t=4.403, 4.768, P<0.01), and the scar VSS score of atrophic scar patients was significantly lower than that of hypertrophic scar patients (t=4.185, P<0.01). On admission, the TEWL of scar skin of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (18±4), (20±4), and (20±5) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively, significantly higher than (12±3), (12±3), and (14±4) g·m^-2·h^-1 of normal skin (t=6.889, 10.221, 5.870, P<0.01). The difference values of TEWL of superficial scar, hypertrophic scar, and atrophic scar patients were (5.9±1.7), (8.1±1.7), and (6.4±2.1) g·m^-2·h^-1 respectively. In comparison among different types of scar patients, only the TEWL difference of hypertrophic scar patients was significantly higher than that of superficial scar patients (t=6.975, P<0.05). The TEWL difference and the scar VSS score in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars were significantly positively correlated (r=0.805, 0.872, 0.826, P<0.01). Conclusions: The TEWL of scar skin in patients with superficial scars, hypertrophic scars, and atrophic scars is increased compared with normal skin, and the degree of increase was positively correlated with the severity of scars.

[PI3K/Akt signaling pathway mediates the protective effect of endomorphin-1 postconditioning against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in mediating the protective effect of endomorphin-1 against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury.

OBJECTIVE

Fifty SD male rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, myocardial IR group, endomorphin-1 post-treatment group (EM50 group), endomorphin-1+wortmannin (a PI3K/Akt signaling pathway inhibitor) treatment group (EM50+Wort group), and wortmannin treatment group (Wort group). Rat models of myocardial IR injury were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 30 min followed by reperfusion for 120 min. The heart rate and mean arterial pressure were monitored during the experiment. Plasma levels of LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α, SOD and MDA were measured after reperfusion. The mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was detected using RT-PCR, and the expression of apoptosis-related protein cleaved caspase-3, phosphorylated Akt protein and total Akt protein in myocardial tissue was detected using Western blotting.

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial IR injury significantly decreased heart rate and blood pressure of the rats in comparison with the sham operation (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the IR group, the rats in EM50 group showed significantly increased heart rate and blood pressure (P < 0.05) with decreased plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels (P < 0.05), increased SOD activity (P < 0.05), increased expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA (P < 0.05), and decreased expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein (P < 0.05). In EM50+Wort group, the heart rate and blood pressure were significantly lowered (P < 0.05), plasma LDH, CK-MB, cTnI, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA levels increased (P < 0.05), SOD activity decreased (P < 0.05), the expression of p-Akt protein and Bcl-2 mRNA was reduced (P < 0.05), and the expression of Bax mRNA and cleaved caspase-3 protein increased (P < 0.05) as compared with those in EM50 group.

OBJECTIVE

EM-1 postconditioning can regulate cardiac myocyte apoptosis and reduce myocardial IR injury in rats. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may play a role in mediating the myocardial protective effects of EM-1 postconditioning.

POS0651 CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL RESPONSE TO TOFACITINIB IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: PROBABILITY PLOT ANALYSIS OF RESULTS FROM A 48-WEEK PHASE 3b/4 METHOTREXATE WITHDRAWAL STUDY

Background:

The Phase 3b/4 study ORAL Shift (NCT02831855) demonstrated sustained efficacy/safety of tofacitinib modified-release 11 mg QD following MTX withdrawal, that was non-inferior to continued tofacitinib + MTX use, in patients (pts) with moderate to severe RA who achieved LDA with tofacitinib + MTX at Week (W)24.1

Objectives:

To assess differences and similarities in clinical/functional responses in pts receiving tofacitinib ± MTX in ORAL Shift.

Methods:

In ORAL Shift, pts received open-label tofacitinib + MTX to W24; at W24, pts who achieved CDAI LDA were randomised to receive tofacitinib + MTX or tofacitinib + placebo (PBO) from W24–48. In this post hoc analysis, clinical efficacy endpoints were ACR-N (minimum % change from baseline [BL; Δ] at W48 achieved by each pt in 3 efficacy measures), ΔDAS28-4(ESR), and DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA (scores ≤3.2) and moderate/high disease activity (scores >3.2). Functional efficacy endpoints were ΔHAQ-DI and HAQ-DI clinically relevant functional progression (CRFP) status at W48, defined as failure to achieve improvement in HAQ-DI ≥ minimum clinically important difference (MCID; ≥0.22 decrease from BL in HAQ-DI). Thus, CRFP was defined as <0.22 decrease, no change or increase from BL in HAQ-DI at W48. All efficacy endpoints were summarised descriptively. Cumulative probability plots of ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were produced. Median of mean CRP values from BL–W24 and >W24–48 were assessed by response subgroups.

Results:

266 pts receiving tofacitinib + MTX and 264 pts receiving tofacitinib + PBO in W24–48 were included. At W48: mean ACR-N was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (60.8 vs 53.1); mean decrease in HAQ-DI was generally similar between groups (-0.71 vs -0.67); mean decrease in DAS28-4(ESR) was numerically greater with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO (-2.95 vs -2.68). The differences/similarities between groups in ACR-N and ΔHAQ-DI were also seen in cumulative probability plots (Figure 1). CRFP rates were numerically lower with tofacitinib + MTX (18.7%) vs tofacitinib + PBO (23.5%), and in pts with remission/LDA (tofacitinib + MTX, 12.1%; tofacitinib + PBO, 16.8%) vs moderate/high disease activity (tofacitinib + MTX, 26.2%; tofacitinib + PBO, 30.8%). Median of mean CRP over time was generally numerically lower in pts with CRFP vs non-CRFP and DAS28-4(ESR)-defined remission/LDA vs moderate/high disease activity; and in those receiving tofacitinib + PBO vs tofacitinib + MTX, irrespective of CRFP or DAS28-4(ESR) disease status (Table 1).

Table 1.

Median of mean CRPa up to W48 by response subgroups

Tofacitinib 11 mg QD + MTXTofacitinib 11 mg QD + PBOMean CRP,amedian (IQR) [n]>BL–W24>W24–48>BL–W24>W24–48HAQ-DI CRFP2.84 (1.15–7.30)2.30 (0.82–4.75)1.45 (0.77–4.42)2.28 (0.53–7.28)[45][46][56][56]HAQ-DI non-CRFP2.81 (1.09–6.19)2.91 (1.19–5.84)2.26 (0.98–4.63)2.47 (1.13–5.53)[195][195][176][178]DAS28-4(ESR) remission/LDA2.48 (1.05–4.95)2.46 (1.07–4.76)1.70 (0.89–4.14)1.95 (0.81–3.82)[126][127][115][117]DAS28-4(ESR) moderate/high disease activity3.56 (1.17–7.13)3.58 (1.36–8.33)2.60 (0.87–5.16)2.68 (1.34–8.23)[107][107][115][115]

aMean CRP was calculated as the average CRP value during each time period (>BL–W24 or >W24–48)

CRP, C-reactive protein; DAS28-4(ESR), Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate; HAQ-DI, Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index; IQR, interquartile range; LDA, low disease activity; MTX, methotrexate; n, number of pts meeting assessment criteria; QD, once daily

Conclusion:

Although clinical/functional responses were generally similar between treatment groups, numerical improvements were seen for some efficacy endpoints with tofacitinib + MTX vs tofacitinib + PBO. A numerically higher CRFP rate may be associated with higher DAS28-4(ESR) disease activity. CRP changes up to W48 may not trend with CRFP status.

References:

[1]Cohen et al. Lancet Rheumatol 2019; 1: E23-34.

Acknowledgements:

Study sponsored by Pfizer Inc. Medical writing support was provided by Anthony G McCluskey, CMC Connect, and funded by Pfizer Inc.

Disclosure of Interests:

Stanley B. Cohen Consultant of: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Pfizer Inc, Yi-Hsing Chen Grant/research support from: Bristol-Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer Inc, Naonobu Sugiyama Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jose Luis Rivas Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Annette Diehl Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tatjana Lukic Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Jerome Paulissen Consultant of: Pfizer Inc, Haiyun Fan Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Tomohiro Hirose Shareholder of: Pfizer Inc, Employee of: Pfizer Inc, Edward Keystone Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Amgen, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Janssen, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer Inc, Sanofi Genzyme, Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celltrion, Eli Lilly, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Gilead Sciences, Janssen, Merck, Myriad Autoimmune, Pfizer Inc, Sandoz, Sanofi Genzyme, Samsung Bioepsis, Grant/research support from: Amgen, Merck, Pfizer Inc, PuraPharm

Metatranscriptomic analysis identifies different viral-like sequences in two neotropical Mansoniini mosquito species

Mosquitoes interact with a wide range of viruses including both arboviruses and insect-specific viruses. This study aimed to characterize the RNA viruses that are interacting with Mansonia wilsoni and Coquillettidia hermanoi mosquito species. The total RNA extracted from mosquito pools were sequenced on a Ion torrent platform. Viral contigs were identified against viral databases and their evolutionary relationship were reconstructed. We identified a total of 107 viral sequences, 11 of which were assigned as endogenous viral elements, and at least six known viral families were identified. Phylogenetic reconstructions were performed for 4 viral families. All Mansoniini viruses investigated through phylogenetic analysis are closely related to insect-specific viruses found in other mosquito species although with considerable divergence at the amino acid level, suggesting that we have detected new viral lineages. This study enhanced our understanding about the virome of two sylvatic Mansoniini mosquitoes.

Clinical effect and antiviral mechanism of T-705 in treating severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus (SFTSV) is an emerging tick-borne virus with high fatality and an expanding endemic. Currently, effective anti-SFTSV intervention remains unavailable. Favipiravir (T-705) was recently reported to show in vitro and in animal model antiviral efficacy against SFTSV. Here, we conducted a single-blind, randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of T-705 in treating SFTS (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry website, number ChiCTR1900023350). From May to August 2018, laboratory-confirmed SFTS patients were recruited from a designated hospital and randomly assigned to receive oral T-705 in combination with supportive care or supportive care only. Fatal outcome occurred in 9.5% (7/74) of T-705 treated patients and 18.3% (13/71) of controls (odds ratio, 0.466, 95% CI, 0.174-1.247). Cox regression showed a significant reduction in case fatality rate (CFR) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.366 (95% CI, 0.142-0.944). Among the low-viral load subgroup (RT-PCR cycle threshold ≥26), T-705 treatment significantly reduced CFR from 11.5 to 1.6% (P = 0.029), while no between-arm difference was observed in the high-viral load subgroup (RT-PCR cycle threshold <26). The T-705-treated group showed shorter viral clearance, lower incidence of hemorrhagic signs, and faster recovery of laboratory abnormities compared with the controls. The in vitro and animal experiments demonstrated that the antiviral efficacies of T-705 were proportionally induced by SFTSV mutation rates, particularly from two transition mutation types. The mutation analyses on T-705-treated serum samples disclosed a partially consistent mutagenesis pattern as those of the in vitro or animal experiments in reducing the SFTSV viral loads, further supporting the anti-SFTSV effect of T-705, especially for the low-viral loads.

LncRNA SNHG15 promotes the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma via sponging miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified to exert an oncogenic or anti-tumor function in malignant tumors. LncRNA SNHG15 is verified to be an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. In this paper, we mainly investigate the potential influence of SNHG15 on the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SNHG15 levels in NPC tissues and cell lines were detected by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Correlation between SNHG15 level and prognosis of NPC patients was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Regulatory effects of SNHG15 on proliferative, colony formation abilities, and apoptosis of SUNE1 and CNE1 cells were assessed through a series of functional experiments. Potential miRNAs binding SNHG15 and the downstream gene of the microRNA (miRNA) were predicted by bioinformatics method, which was confirmed by Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay and Western blot.

RESULTS

SNHG15 was upregulated in NPC tissues and cells. High level of SNHG15 indicated worse survival in NPC patients. Knockdown of SNHG15 markedly suppressed proliferative ability and induced apoptosis in SUNE1 and CNE1 cells. It is verified that miR-141-3p was the direct target binding SNHG15, and KLF9 was the downstream gene of miR-141-3p. SNHG15 was demonstrated to be a ceRNA to upregulate KLF9 by competitively binding miR-141-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

SNHG15 is upregulated in NPC tissues, and this aggravates the progression of NPC by absorbing miR-141-3p to upregulate KLF9.

The genome of Tripterygium wilfordii and characterization of the celastrol biosynthesis pathway

Tripterygium wilfordii is a vine from the Celastraceae family that is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The active ingredient, celastrol, is a friedelane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid with putative roles as an antitumor, immunosuppressive, and anti-obesity agent. Here, we report a reference genome assembly of T. wilfordii with high-quality annotation using a hybrid sequencing strategy. The total genome size obtained is 340.12 Mb, with a contig N50 value of 3.09 Mb. We successfully anchored 91.02% of sequences into 23 pseudochromosomes using high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi–C) technology. The super-scaffold N50 value was 13.03 Mb. We also annotated 31,593 structural genes, with a repeat percentage of 44.31%. These data demonstrate that T. wilfordii diverged from Malpighiales species approximately 102.4 million years ago. By integrating genome, transcriptome and metabolite analyses, as well as in vivo and in vitro enzyme assays of two cytochrome P450 (CYP450) genes, TwCYP712K1 and TwCYP712K2, it is possible to investigate the second biosynthesis step of celastrol and demonstrate that this was derived from a common ancestor. These data provide insights and resources for further investigation of pathways related to celastrol, and valuable information to aid the conservation of resources, as well as understand the evolution of Celastrales.